MAINTENANCE & FLUIDS
2016 RAM 1500 Oil Type & Capacity
For a 2016 RAM 1500, the 3.6L Pentastar uses about 6 US qt (5.6 L), the 5.7L HEMI uses 7 US qt (6.6 L), and the 3.0L EcoDiesel uses 10.5 US qt (10 L), each with a filter change. Use the engine-specific grade.
Technical information reviewed: 2026-11-06
Confirm the engine, trim, drivetrain, market and installed equipment before using a part number, capacity or repair procedure.
Reference specifications
| Engine | Oil information |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | SAE 5W-20, FCA MS-6395; 6 US qt / 5.6 L with filter |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | SAE 5W-20, FCA MS-6395; 7 US qt / 6.6 L with filter |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | SAE 5W-40 synthetic, API CJ-4 as specified in 2016 guide; 10.5 US qt / 10 L with filter |
Use the oil cap and current manufacturer guidance for the specific engine. 2016 user-guide fluid capacities on pages 266 and 270; an oil refill figure never replaces checking the level.
5.7L HEMI engine oil
Use the viscosity and manufacturer standard printed in the 2016 manual, not a universal “RAM 1500 oil” recommendation. The 3.6L V6 and 3.0L EcoDiesel have different lubrication requirements.
Oil-change checks
Replace the oil filter with the oil, verify the dipstick after running and settling the engine, and check the instrument-cluster oil-life reminder. A refill figure is a starting reference, not a reason to skip checking the level.
Oil-life indicator versus a fixed mileage interval
The service reminder estimates when an oil change is due based on operating conditions. Keep a written maintenance log, and do not stretch servicing because a truck has low annual mileage. The engine-specific schedule and any severe-service exceptions remain important.
After an oil change
Inspect the drain plug and filter for leaks, check the dipstick on level ground following the manual’s procedure, and make sure the service reminder is reset only after the work has been completed. Avoid adding the whole quoted capacity blindly to an engine that has not fully drained.
Use the correct model-year manual and current service information. Stop if instructions or safety precautions are unclear, and use a qualified technician for work you cannot verify.
References and further reading
This independent guide is not endorsed by the vehicle manufacturer. Let us know if you spot an error.